Lidoderm patches were one of the few things that gave me relief and were particularly helpful in areas where things were touching my skin like on my ankle where my shoes would rub against the skin and cause pain or (after my spread) under my bra straps. I would give them the maximum time and try out in a few locations to see where they help most. Remember that you can cut the patches into different sizes and shapes so that they work best. I usually cut then in half or thirds and would use in multiple locations at once. I DID use them in conjuction with heating pads for greater relief during flares...but it's not recommended.